Physiological changes during the period
đđ Hormonal fluctuations:
- Estrogen and progesterone : During the menstrual cycle, the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone fluctuate considerably. Before and during menstruation, these hormone levels drop, which can trigger various physical and emotional symptoms.
- Prostaglandins : These hormone-like substances are produced in the lining of the uterus and play a role in contracting the uterine muscles to secrete the tissue. High levels of prostaglandins can cause more severe menstrual cramps.
âĄď¸ Cramps and pain (dysmenorrhea):
- Many menstruating people experience cramps in the lower abdomen during their period. This pain is caused by the contractions of the uterus, which are necessary to secrete the uterine lining.
- Cramping can be mild to severe and may spread to the back and thighs. It can also cause nausea, diarrhea and headaches.
𩸠Blood loss and anemia :
- During menstruation, the body loses blood. In some people, this blood loss can lead to iron deficiency anemia, especially if menstruation is heavy (menorrhagia). Signs of anemia include tiredness, weakness and paleness.
đ§ Water retention and flatulence:
- Hormonal changes can cause water retention in the body, resulting in a feeling of heaviness and bloating. This can be uncomfortable and add to the physical discomfort.
đŠ Emotional and psychological effects:
- Hormonal fluctuations can also affect mood. Many menstruating people experience mood swings, irritability, anxiety or depressive moods in the days before and during menstruation.
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common phenomenon that includes a variety of physical and emotional symptoms that can interfere with daily life.
đđ Hormonal fluctuations:
- Estrogen and progesterone : During the menstrual cycle, the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone fluctuate considerably. Before and during menstruation, these hormone levels drop, which can trigger various physical and emotional symptoms.
- Prostaglandins : These hormone-like substances are produced in the lining of the uterus and play a role in contracting the uterine muscles to secrete the tissue. High levels of prostaglandins can cause more severe menstrual cramps.
âĄď¸ Cramps and pain (dysmenorrhea):
- Many menstruating people experience cramps in the lower abdomen during their period. This pain is caused by the contractions of the uterus, which are necessary to secrete the uterine lining.
- Cramping can be mild to severe and may spread to the back and thighs. It can also cause nausea, diarrhea and headaches.
𩸠Blood loss and anemia :
- During menstruation, the body loses blood. In some people, this blood loss can lead to iron deficiency anemia, especially if menstruation is heavy (menorrhagia). Signs of anemia include tiredness, weakness and paleness.
đ§ Water retention and flatulence:
- Hormonal changes can cause water retention in the body, resulting in a feeling of heaviness and bloating. This can be uncomfortable and add to the physical discomfort.
đŠ Emotional and psychological effects:
- Hormonal fluctuations can also affect mood. Many menstruating people experience mood swings, irritability, anxiety or depressive moods in the days before and during menstruation.
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common phenomenon that includes a variety of physical and emotional symptoms that can interfere with daily life.
